Client Health

Flip-Flop Flubs

Foot-related injuries due to flip-flop wear are on the rise, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. “There are many flip-flops on the market that offer little to nothing in terms of arch support, stability, and shock absorption,” says the APMA’s Dr. Ross Taubman. “Opting to wear a pair of cheaply constructed flip-flops puts the wearer at risk for injuries such as arch pain, tendinitis, and sprained ankles.”

Foot-related injuries due to flip-flop wear are on the rise, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. “There are many flip-flops on the market that offer little to nothing in terms of arch support, stability, and shock absorption,” says the APMA’s Dr. Ross Taubman. “Opting to wear a pair of cheaply constructed flip-flops puts the wearer at risk for injuries such as arch pain, tendinitis, and sprained ankles.” The APMA urges wearers to select flip-flops that are made of high-quality soft leather, rather than plastic or foam. They offer the following five “don’ts” to reduce the risk of injury:

1. Don’t re-wear flip-flops year after year. Thoroughly inspect older flip-flops for wear. If they show signs of severe wear in the soles, it’s time to discard them.

2. Don’t ignore irritation between toes, where the toe thong fits — this can lead to blisters and even worse irritation.

3. Don’t wear flip-flops while walking long distances. Even the sturdiest flip-flop offers little in terms of shock absorption and arch support.

4. Don’t do yard work while wearing flip-flops. Always wear a shoe that fully protects the foot when doing outside activities like mowing the lawn or using a weed-eater.

5. Don’t ever play sports in flip-flops. You can easily twist your foot or ankle, leading to sprains or breaks.